Jessica McClard launched the first Little Free Pantry in Fayetteville, Arkansas in May 2016, inspired by the Little Free Library concept. Within months, the grassroots movement spread globally, with thousands of pantries now operating worldwide.
The Little Free Pantry organisation - https://www.littlefreepantry.org/ - provides comprehensive resources including:
construction plans (chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57509aefd210b84ca7cae793/t/5ee1076f1791b8054d906da7/1591805809866/LFP+Pilot+Plans%2C+Construction+and+Cutting+Guide.pdf)
Their global gallery showcases diverse designs and implementations. (https://www.littlefreepantry.org/project-gallery-1)
Research shows irregular supply actually helps control usage and prevents loitering, making empty pantries normal rather than problematic. The movement operates on the principle that "what you can do is enough," encouraging sustainable community engagement rather than overwhelming individual stewards.
How to get involved
Time:
2 hours per week for ongoing maintenance after initial setup.
Links